What are the dances from Mindanao?

Answer 1

The dances, particularly of the Maguindanao, the Maranao, and the Tausug, are largely ceremonial and are often accompanied by percussion instruments such as gongs and drums. The presence of Indian influences, introduced no doubt by Hinduized Malays, is prominent in the dance called Kandingan, a Tausug wedding dance; in the Lanao dance Singkil, performed in the presence of the Maranao royal family; in the Sagayan, a Maranao and Maguindanao war dance recalling the exploits of the great Muslim warrior Bantugan; in the Pangalay, performed with expressive hand movements in varied versions among the Tausog, Badjao and Samal; in the Tahing Baila, a Yakan dance for a bountiful fish catch; and in the Lunsay, a popular Jama Mapun community song-and-dance number performed during wedding celebrations.